Boulez was a true visionary in the world of classical music, reshaping the landscape and challenging tradition. His music, characterized by extreme beauty and precision, remains essential listening for those who are willing to put on their ‘Boulez ears’ and appreciate his unique style.
As a conductor, Boulez was equally influential, programming a wide range of composers and securing their place in concert halls worldwide. His baton-free precision and ability to communicate his vision to musicians with clarity and precision set him apart as a master conductor.
Those who had the opportunity to work with Boulez, such as singer Brindley Sherratt and soprano Barbara Hannigan, speak of life-changing experiences and the immense impact he had on their musical careers. His attention to detail, focus, and commitment to the music were truly inspirational.
Conductor Antonio Pappano praises Boulez’s unparalleled ear for music, recognizing his genius and the difficulty of performing his complex compositions. Boulez’s legacy lives on through those who had the privilege of working with him and through the timeless beauty of his music. Photograph: Marco Borggreve
I first encountered Boulez’s music when I was a student in Vienna, and it was a revelation. His compositions were like nothing I had ever heard before – intricate, daring, and full of surprises. I was drawn to his innovative use of timbre and rhythm, and his fearless exploration of new sonic possibilities.
As a composer, Boulez was a trailblazer. He pushed the boundaries of what was possible in music, challenging conventions and reshaping the landscape of contemporary classical music. His influence on me as a composer cannot be overstated – he taught me to stand my ground, to trust my instincts, and to never be afraid to take risks.
One of the things that struck me most about Boulez was his unwavering dedication to his craft. He was a perfectionist, constantly striving for excellence in everything he did. His meticulous attention to detail and his relentless pursuit of artistic innovation set him apart as a true visionary in the world of music.
Working with Boulez was a transformative experience for me. His guidance and mentorship challenged me to think differently, to push myself beyond my comfort zone, and to explore new creative possibilities. He encouraged me to embrace the unknown, to embrace the chaos, and to find beauty in the unexpected.
La música de Boulez es un recurso indestructible para encontrar nuestra propia voz, para inspirar a los compositores a luchar contra las normas de un negocio de la música clásica, incluso con furia si es necesario, como lo hizo en sus primeros años tanto en su música como en sus declaraciones. Él me enseñó a mantener mi postura en los ensayos, algo que no siempre se considera apropiado para los compositores, especialmente para las mujeres.
Répons es la obra suya a la que regreso más a menudo por su combinación visionaria de espacio, instrumentos tradicionales y transformaciones electrónicas en vivo en un flujo de tiempo y colores. Era un hombre de vasta lectura, un pensador rápido, un cosmopolita curioso y un diplomático erudito, que me enseñó, y nos enseñó a todos, a escuchar. Espero que su música se siga tocando en 100 años. Ars longa, vita brevis.
El Boulez 100 de la London Symphony Orchestra, con los directores Simon Rattle y Maxime Pascal, incluye estrenos mundiales de obras de George Benjamin (con la solista Barbara Hannigan) y Olga Neuwirth, se llevará a cabo el 9, 26 y 27 de enero. El día de Inmersión Total de Boulez de la BBC Symphony Orchestra, con Martyn Brabbins dirigiendo, será el 30 de marzo e incluirá a Tamara Stefanovich interpretando las 12 Notations y Incises de Boulez. Todos los eventos se realizarán en el Barbican de Londres.